Defensive Draft Depth: 2025

The latest newsletter from KCSN Sports Data Scientist, Joseph Hefner

Looking at PFF’s mock draft simulator, PFF lists the Chiefs top 3 needs as guard, tackle, and defensive line. Pro Football Network says defensive tackle, guard, and edge rusher. NFL.com says defensive line, offensive line, and edge rusher. Basically, everyone thinks the Chiefs need to bolster the trenches on both sides of the line.

Last week, we talked about the offensive depth in this class. We found that it’s a surprisingly good year for running backs compared to the past 5 drafts (2020-2024). At every point in this draft, the consensus board puts running backs at either the highest or second highest total number of running backs taken in the top 100 picks. Tight ends, too. They start very spicy, with two in the top 20, then it stays solid on day two.

Unfortunately, neither of those positions are major positions of need for the Chiefs. The offensive line depth in this class is not terrible, but it is not good, either. The one prospect Chiefs fans are hanging their hats on in the first round (OT Josh Simmons) is recovering from a knee injury, and may not see the field until late in his rookie season, if at all in 2025.

Luckily for the Chiefs, the defensive line depth (both interior and edge) is really good this year.